    [Public Papers of the Presidents of the United States: George W. Bush (2004, Book III)]
    [December 31, 2004]
    [Page 3145]
    [From the U.S. Government Publishing Office www.gpo.gov]

    Statement on the Indian Ocean Earthquake and Tsunamis
    December 31, 2004

        The disaster around the Indian Ocean continues to grow both in size
    and scope. I have been monitoring closely the developments and our
    recovery and relief effort underway. I also look forward to the detailed
    report of the official delegation led by Secretary Powell and Governor Jeb Bush that will
    travel to the region very soon.
        The United States has already provided an initial, substantial
    effort through existing emergency response resources, the formation of
    the core group, and military assets. To help coordinate the massive
    relief effort, disaster response officials are on the ground, and we
    have established a Support Center in Thailand that is manned and
    operational. More than 20 patrol and cargo aircraft have been made
    available to assess the disaster and deliver relief supplies. Many of
    those aircraft are on the scene. We have dispatched the aircraft carrier
    Abraham Lincoln, the maritime prepositioning squadron from Guam, and an
    amphibious ship carrying a Marine Expeditionary Unit. They will soon be
    in position to support relief efforts to include the generation of clean
    water. We are leading an international coalition to help with immediate
    humanitarian relief, rehabilitation, and long-term reconstruction
    efforts. India, Japan, and Australia have pledged to help us coordinate
    these relief efforts, and I am confident many more nations will join
    this core group in short order. Reports of strong charitable donations
    are also very encouraging and reflect the true generosity and compassion
    of the American people.
        Initial findings of American assessment teams on the ground indicate
    that the need for financial and other assistance will steadily increase
    in the days and weeks ahead. Because of this information and based on
    the recommendation of Secretary Powell and
    Administrator Natsios, I am today
    committing $350 million to fund the U.S. portion of the relief effort.
    Our contributions will continue to be revised as the full effects of
    this terrible tragedy become clearer.
        Our thoughts and prayers are with all those affected by this epic
    disaster.

    Note: The related proclamation of January 1, 2005, was published in the
    Federal Register at 70 FR 1157.